The theatre industry is so incredibly important to us all. Not only for its contribution to the industry and to the country’s economy but also to us, as humans. It’s vital to our mental health, to our communities and to our education.
Jack Gamble, Associate Director at the Arcola Theatre, has organised a Public Campaign For The Arts for the public to express their support and for the action that is needed to save our theatres.
Following the closure of the Arcola Theatre in mid-march, Jack received various messages from people in the local community, who were concerned about its future.
They make a “different kind of argument”, said Jack. “Particularly outside London, the arts centre is the heart of a community.”
To highlight the immense value that the arts industry brings to us individually, Jack gathered several videos from members of the public from across the UK. In these powerful and heartfelt videos, individuals talk about what theatre means to them. From their theatre’s outreach and participatory work to the benefits it brings to their confidence and mental health, it indicates the many levels to which theatre brings us value.
One individual says the arts are good for their “mind, body and soul”, while another says “it’s what woke me up to feeling in touch with life and meaning.”
Jack truly believes that public investment is essential. It is important, now more than ever to protect our theatres and the arts industry because of the great benefits it brings to us as humans.
“Unless our government acts now, most of Britain’s theatres, music venues and performing arts companies will be gone by the end of this year,” the campaign’s website states. “We are members of the public who need them to survive.”
Please join us in supporting the Public Campaign For The Arts today by submitting your videos. Tell the world how the arts have made a difference to your life and help support theatres. Click the button below to find out how you can do this, and more.